RTDNA/F Names Dan Shelley Incoming Ex. Dir.

The Radio Television Digital News Association and Foundation (RTDNA/F) today announced that longtime association member, former chairman of the board and current Foundation Secretary-Treasurer Dan Shelley has been named incoming executive director of the two organizations.

Shelley begins work immediately and will assume the role of executive director in September.

Shelley is a veteran Edward. R. Murrow Award-winning radio, television and digital media executive, serving in key news leadership positions with iHeartMedia, Radio One, CBS Television Stations and Journal Broadcast Group.

He began his career at KTTS-AM-FM Springfield, Mo. He has been a member of the RTDNA/F board of directors for nearly two decades, serving terms as the Association’s chairman in 2005-06 and Foundation chairman the following year, as well as chairing the programs, awards and convention planning committees.

“Dan’s unique blend of experience, energy and deep understanding of our mission will position us for growth and continued success,” said Board Chairman Vincent Duffy, news director of Michigan Radio. “His passion and dedication make him an ideal leader for our organization.”

“I am honored to take on this exciting new challenge at a critical time for our profession,” Shelley said. “More than ever, RTDNA plays an essential role in defending the rights of electronic journalists. I am looking forward to serving our members and advocating on their behalf.”

This spring and summer, Shelley will oversee the development of RTDNA’s Voice of the First Amendment Task Force and will become executive director at the conclusion of the annual Excellence in Journalism conference on Sept. 9. Current Executive Director Mike Cavender, who previously announced his intention to retire, will provide transition assistance to the organizations through the end of the year.